NMET offers a variety of volunteer activities dependent upon your interests and abilities. You can volunteer as an individual or as part of a group. Service clubs, youth groups, school groups, church groups and other organizations are encouraged to participate in community service projects with NMET. Below are descriptions of the volunteer positions needed to assist directly with equine assisted activities as well as non equine related volunteer opportunities. Training is provided and required for all volunteer positions that work directly with clients and horses. 

 

Side Walkers

Side walkers work with clients and horses during therapy sessions. They help the client maintain balance and control by walking beside the rider (one on each side). Side walkers help to interpret the directions given by the therapist and assist the therapist with the mounting and dismounting of the client. 

 

Horse Handlers/Leaders

Horse handlers work with clients and horses in therapy sessions and have developed an adequate degree of horse experience to be responsible for the horse’s behavior while a client rides. They often lead the horse, remain within reach of a mounted student, and also be asked to help with grooming, tacking, mounting and dismounting. 

 

Support Volunteer Opportunities 

• General barn maintenance and cleanup

• Clean stalls and paddocks

• Unload and move hay

• Fence and facility repairs

• Clean and maintain equipment

• Special Events and Fundraisers

• Administrative Assistance

 

Volunteer Requirements

NMET’s insurance requires volunteers to be at least 16 years old, work with horses and clients, and able to walk a minimum of 60 minutes and jog for brief intervals. It is not necessary to have previous experience with horses or individuals with special needs.

 

Expectations of Volunteers

To ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for clients and their families, the horses and our volunteers, NMET has high expectations for volunteers.